Highways Agency advice to drivers as further snowfalls and freezing temperatures are forecast

Drivers are being advised to consider whether their journeys are essential before travelling for the rest of today (Tuesday) and overnight into Wednesday as continuing snow and freezing temperatures are forecast for many parts of the country.

During this morning snow is forecast to extend from the north into the Midlands and parts of the southwest. This evening snow will be most likely across the Midlands and parts of the south an south east, with central and southern counties at greatest risk of heavy, disruptive, snowfalls. Snow elsewhere will be more scattered but also locally heavy in some areas.

The Highways Agency, which is responsible for England's motorways and major A roads, has been and will continue to treat the roads where freezing temperatures and snow are forecast. All roads on the strategic road network are open.

Our winter fleet of around 500 salt-spreaders and snowploughs has been working flat out treating motorways and major 'A' roads extensively yesterday, overnight and this morning. Drivers are advised to take care around spreading vehicles and vehicles clearing snow and only to overtake if they can do so safely, without driving on uncleared snow. These vehicles are performing essential work to help keep roads open and may be travelling at low speed. However, even when roads have been treated, drivers should still take care, especially on stretches where the local road layout or landscape means there could be a greater risk of ice forming.

With temperatures falling to below freezing across many parts of the country overnight tonight and into Wednesday morning, drivers are advised to check the forecast and road conditions, leave extra time for their journeys, and to delay their journey if the weather becomes severe. Drivers who are unused to driving in such conditions are reminded that it can take up to ten times longer to stop when it is icy, so allow more room to slow down and stop. Avoid losing control of your vehicle because of wheel spin by using the highest gear possible. Avoid sudden braking, acceleration and sharp turns.

Road users are also advised to be prepared with warm clothing and an emergency pack, which includes food and water, boots, de-icer, a torch, and a shovel in case of snow. Plan your journey before leaving home. Check your route for delays, and the weather forecast. Listen to travel news on your car radio or tune into the Highways Agency's Traffic Radio, which is available on DAB Digital Radio or online at http://www.trafficradio.org.uk.

Information about current road conditions is on the Highways Agency's website http://www.highways.gov.uk/trafficinfo/

For up-to-date information on road conditions on England's motorways and trunk roads, drivers should check the Agency website at http://www.highways.gov.uk or call 08457 504030. For information on weather conditions, visit the Met Office website http://www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio.